Boater Taken To Hospital After Disabled Boat Slams Into Seawall At North Beach Pier

NORTH BEACH, Md. — A late-morning rescue unfolded on Friday, August 8, 2025, after a disabled 18-foot pleasure craft slammed repeatedly into a seawall on the north side of the North Beach pier, stranding four people on board.

Crews from the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department, the Calvert County Dive Team and multiple support units responded around 10:38 a.m. to the 9200 block of Atlantic Avenue. A Good Samaritan reached the powerless boat by walking along the seawall in an attempt to assist the distressed occupants before emergency crews arrived.

Fireboat 1 initially could not reach the vessel due to shallow water and the unsettled condition of the passengers. Rescue personnel from Squad 1 and Chief 12 waded in from the beach wearing protective suits to calm those aboard. Two passengers were persuaded to climb onto the seawall and walk to shore.

The remaining passengers — one hesitant to disembark amid choppy waves and the operator struggling to secure the drifting craft — stayed aboard until Fireboat 1 managed to attach a tow line. The vessel was pulled clear and taken to the Rod ‘n’ Reel marina, where it was secured.

One boater was taken to CalvertHealth Medical Center with injuries sustained during the collision with the seawall, and two North Beach responders sought treatment for minor injuries. All were later released.

Officials urged boaters to keep Coast Guard-approved safety gear on board and monitor weather conditions closely before heading onto the Chesapeake Bay.